A 2.6 hectare site it is a challenge to keep it clean. Plot holders are asked to maintain their own rented area, but there are also communal spaces. Every once in a while the allotment site needs us all to get together for a tidy up day. The boundaries get overgrown with brambles and tree growth from the neighbouring recreational space. Roadways get pot-holed from deliveries of manure and wood-chip. The community hut needs a lick of paint to spruce it up. Community chicken, bee and orchard areas need pruning and maintenance.
With COVID vaccinations now being taken up by many it helps those that have not ventured out much in groups. Being outdoors and taking precautions when around those who are vulnerable or nervous means the everyone can come along. Then of course there is the weather, but a snow flurry on the morning of the community tidy up day does not deter anyone.
Plot holders were split off into groups. One group digging out beds and borders near the gate to allow planting. The aim to create a seasonal flowery welcome to the allotments. It will hopefully keep it clean going forward as flower beds are less attractive to litter being dropped on them than empty beds. Another group cleared the hut and store of broken unable to recycle items.
Toilets – keep it clean
The community hut has two toilets. Plot holders are asked to keep them clean and tidy after use and ensure there is a loo roll left in each one when they leave. A number of spiders had made new homes during the last couple of years, as the usage of the loos had decreased. Less visits to the plots by some, and shorter visits by others in an attempt to reduce potential contact time.
This was a great chance to get them brushed and washed out and then to give them a coat of paint. The solar security light checked and re-fixed. A quick check on the plumbing too to reduce potential for leaks. Scrubbed wooden floor duck boards plus cleaning materials put back in and new loo rolls hung up. Ready to go …!
Community Orchard
A group headed to the Community Orchard for some spring cleaning there too. Grass to be litter-picked and mown. Trees that fruit later in the year pruned with knowledgable guidance of one of the Committee. A plot holder who does graphic design took a look at the trees and noted their type and position. A sign is being created for the entrance to the Community Orchard so that plot holders know what is there. Once the trees fruit the produce is available to all allotmenteers on a fare-share basis.
A good time was had by all in the Spring sunshine, with new friends being made, and old friends catching up whilst litter-picking, digging, cleaning, and pruning. A light work-out for all who joined in. Big thanks from the Committee to everyone who took part and for donations of materials and tools to make it happen. If you’d like to donate tools, materials or cash then please contact us.